2008 Purdue Boilermakers Game Preview
written by: BB73, BuckeyeRyn, Buckeyeskickbuttocks, Bucklion, DaddyBigBucks, JCOSU86, jwinslow, and 3yardsandacloud
Preface
Before discussing this week's opponent, it's worth noting that Beanie Wells has now gained at least 100 yards on the ground in each of the last 5 games he has played in; becoming the first tOSU running back to record 5 straight 100-yard games since Jonathan Wells in 2001.
This will be the last visit to Columbus for Joe Tiller as the head coach of Purdue. Although there has been a lot of recent talk about spread offenses in the Big Ten, Tiller brought his "basketball on grass" offense to the conference back in 1997.
The Boilermakers have named Danny Hope to succeed Tiller as head football coach after the 2008 season, in the same manner that Wisconsin designated Bret Bielema prior to Barry Alvarez's final season. Danny Hope was the O-Line coach during the first 5 years of the Tiller era at Purdue, then was briefly the offensive coordinator at Louisville before leaving in 2002 to become the head man as his alma mater, Eastern Kentucky.
Purdue's highest final ranking in the major polls is a #5 spot in 1943. That 9-0 mark under Elmer Burnham is one of two perfect records they've had since 1900, the other being an 8-0 record in 1929, the last year under Jimmy Phelan.
They had a strong run in the late '60s, finishing 6th, 9th, and 10th respectively in 1966, '67, and '68. Their only other top-10 finish was a 10th place spot in the final poll of the 1979 season. Their 10-2 record that year marks the only time the program has ever had a 10-win season.
Their only outright Big Ten championship was in 1929. They have shared 7 other conference titles, with the Drew Brees team that went to the Rose Bowl after the 2000 season being the only one since 1967.
The Boilermakers are 5-24-2 all-time in games played in Columbus. They also claim another win in the state of Ohio due to their 30-7 victory in Cleveland in 1943.
Curtis Painter is the latest in a long line of successful QBs at Purdue. He follows in the footsteps of Bob DeMoss, Len Dawson, Bob Griese, Mike Phipps, Gary Danielson, Mark Herrmann, Jim Everett, and Drew Brees. Painter needs only 12 yards in Saturday's game to reach 10,000 yards passing in his career. That would make him the fourth quarterback in Big Ten history to accomplish the feat, following Purdue's Drew Brees (11,792), Northwestern's Brett Basanez (10,580) and Iowa's Chuck Long (10,461). He will be making his 38th consecutive start on Satuday, which is the longest active streak in major college football.
Joe Tiller is one of only three head coaches since World War II to have a winning record. Jack Mollenkopf went 84-39-9 (.670) from 1956 through 1969, and his 1968 team held the #1 ranking until they were downed 13-0 in Columbus, by the SuperSoph led team that went on to win a National Championship. Jim Young's teams went 38-19-1 (.664) from 1977 through 1981, before he went to coach Army. But none of the head men will ever threaten the career the mark of Knowlton "Snake" Ames, who went 12-0 in 1891-92.
In the 15 years prior to Tiller's arrival, Purdue's overall record was 54-107-5 (.340). During his 12 seasons, Tiller has a mark of 85-57 (.599), and has led the Boilers to 10 of their 15 bowl appearances.
Tiller has always been known for his sense of humor, as evidenced by these quotes from some of the Big Ten Kickoff luncheons, which get all of the coaches together for media sessions just before fall practice.
"I think we've played Notre Dame 52 straight seasons. I hope we play them for another 52; but if we do, I won't be the coach. Maybe it'll be Joe Paterno."
"When I'm done coaching at Purdue, my wife and I will return to Wyoming. Many people don't understand the weather in Wyoming, but it's clear and still - the snow is clear up to your butt and still coming down."
"I'm from Toledo, and at the game in West Lafayette last year, our stadium holds about 63,000 and Ohio State had about 43,000 fans, many outside the stadium without tickets. My brother heard a Boiler fan and a Buckeye fan talking about game tickets in the parking lot. The Boiler fan had a ticket, and the Buckeye fan said 'How much?' The Purdue fan said 'You can have it, my wife recently died and I don't have anybody to go to the game with.' The Buckeye fan said 'There are no sons or daughters, or other relatives?' and the Boiler fan said 'They're all at the funeral.'"
So Joe, enjoy the fishing in Wyoming, and thanks for making Big Ten football more exciting and more fun. And we Ohio State fans are sorry about you being victimized in 2002 by "Holy Buckeye". OK, we're not really sorry about that.
Date and TimeThis will be the last visit to Columbus for Joe Tiller as the head coach of Purdue. Although there has been a lot of recent talk about spread offenses in the Big Ten, Tiller brought his "basketball on grass" offense to the conference back in 1997.
The Boilermakers have named Danny Hope to succeed Tiller as head football coach after the 2008 season, in the same manner that Wisconsin designated Bret Bielema prior to Barry Alvarez's final season. Danny Hope was the O-Line coach during the first 5 years of the Tiller era at Purdue, then was briefly the offensive coordinator at Louisville before leaving in 2002 to become the head man as his alma mater, Eastern Kentucky.
Purdue's highest final ranking in the major polls is a #5 spot in 1943. That 9-0 mark under Elmer Burnham is one of two perfect records they've had since 1900, the other being an 8-0 record in 1929, the last year under Jimmy Phelan.
They had a strong run in the late '60s, finishing 6th, 9th, and 10th respectively in 1966, '67, and '68. Their only other top-10 finish was a 10th place spot in the final poll of the 1979 season. Their 10-2 record that year marks the only time the program has ever had a 10-win season.
Their only outright Big Ten championship was in 1929. They have shared 7 other conference titles, with the Drew Brees team that went to the Rose Bowl after the 2000 season being the only one since 1967.
The Boilermakers are 5-24-2 all-time in games played in Columbus. They also claim another win in the state of Ohio due to their 30-7 victory in Cleveland in 1943.
Curtis Painter is the latest in a long line of successful QBs at Purdue. He follows in the footsteps of Bob DeMoss, Len Dawson, Bob Griese, Mike Phipps, Gary Danielson, Mark Herrmann, Jim Everett, and Drew Brees. Painter needs only 12 yards in Saturday's game to reach 10,000 yards passing in his career. That would make him the fourth quarterback in Big Ten history to accomplish the feat, following Purdue's Drew Brees (11,792), Northwestern's Brett Basanez (10,580) and Iowa's Chuck Long (10,461). He will be making his 38th consecutive start on Satuday, which is the longest active streak in major college football.
Joe Tiller is one of only three head coaches since World War II to have a winning record. Jack Mollenkopf went 84-39-9 (.670) from 1956 through 1969, and his 1968 team held the #1 ranking until they were downed 13-0 in Columbus, by the SuperSoph led team that went on to win a National Championship. Jim Young's teams went 38-19-1 (.664) from 1977 through 1981, before he went to coach Army. But none of the head men will ever threaten the career the mark of Knowlton "Snake" Ames, who went 12-0 in 1891-92.
In the 15 years prior to Tiller's arrival, Purdue's overall record was 54-107-5 (.340). During his 12 seasons, Tiller has a mark of 85-57 (.599), and has led the Boilers to 10 of their 15 bowl appearances.
Tiller has always been known for his sense of humor, as evidenced by these quotes from some of the Big Ten Kickoff luncheons, which get all of the coaches together for media sessions just before fall practice.
"I think we've played Notre Dame 52 straight seasons. I hope we play them for another 52; but if we do, I won't be the coach. Maybe it'll be Joe Paterno."
"When I'm done coaching at Purdue, my wife and I will return to Wyoming. Many people don't understand the weather in Wyoming, but it's clear and still - the snow is clear up to your butt and still coming down."
"I'm from Toledo, and at the game in West Lafayette last year, our stadium holds about 63,000 and Ohio State had about 43,000 fans, many outside the stadium without tickets. My brother heard a Boiler fan and a Buckeye fan talking about game tickets in the parking lot. The Boiler fan had a ticket, and the Buckeye fan said 'How much?' The Purdue fan said 'You can have it, my wife recently died and I don't have anybody to go to the game with.' The Buckeye fan said 'There are no sons or daughters, or other relatives?' and the Boiler fan said 'They're all at the funeral.'"
So Joe, enjoy the fishing in Wyoming, and thanks for making Big Ten football more exciting and more fun. And we Ohio State fans are sorry about you being victimized in 2002 by "Holy Buckeye". OK, we're not really sorry about that.
Date: Saturday, October 11th, 2008
Time: 3:30 EDT Kick-off
Location: Ohio Stadium - "The Horseshoe" (Columbus, OH)
Constructed: 1922 (Renovated in 2001)
Seating Capacity: 102,329 (Originally 66,210)
Playing Surface: FieldTurf
Events:
Broadcast Information:
TV Broacast: ABC, or ESPN: Ron Franklin (Play-by-play), Ed Cunningham (Analysis), and Jack Arute (Sideline)
Radio Broadcast: Ohio State Radio Network (WBNS 1460TheFan in Columbus): Paul Keels (Play-by-play), Jim Lachey (Analysis), and Marty Bannister (Sideline)
2008 Purdue Boilermakers Offensive PreviewLocation: Ohio Stadium - "The Horseshoe" (Columbus, OH)
Constructed: 1922 (Renovated in 2001)
Seating Capacity: 102,329 (Originally 66,210)
Playing Surface: FieldTurf
Events:
Broadcast Information:
TV Broacast: ABC, or ESPN: Ron Franklin (Play-by-play), Ed Cunningham (Analysis), and Jack Arute (Sideline)
Radio Broadcast: Ohio State Radio Network (WBNS 1460TheFan in Columbus): Paul Keels (Play-by-play), Jim Lachey (Analysis), and Marty Bannister (Sideline)
Returning starters: 6
Last weekend the Buckeyes saw what will probably in the future be regarded as the birth of a legend, as their freshman QB led them to a game-winning drive with about a minute left in the 4th quarter, on the road, in one of the toughest places to play in the conference, against a team with Big Ten title aspirations. This week, the challenge is completely different. Purdue comes in struggling, but playing in the final season of the Joe Tiller era. Tiller will be remembered for introducing "basketball on grass" to the Big Ten, reviving a moribund program, and producing the conference's equivalent of "the cradle of quarterbacks". However, the Boilermakers have been average in recent years, and there has been no signature victory in the Curtis Painter era, let alone in Tiller's final season. Looking at the schedule, with Michigan struggling this year, the game this Saturday is probably going to be the last chance for this team to send Coach Tiller out with something lasting to truly remember about his final season.
Looking up and down the roster, the offense is an immensely senior-laden group. It is difficult, therefore, to figure out why the Boilermakers have struggled to a 2-3 start. The Boilermakers, used to piling up yardage like it is going out of style, have been average at best. Their total yardage per game of 378.2 ranks them only 57th nationally, a stat very unlike most of Coach Tiller's successful teams. One does not expect Purdue to have large numbers on the ground, so their national ranking of 98th (117.2 YPG) is not a shock. What is surprising is that Purdue is barely mustering 250 yards passing per game (254.2), ranking a pedestrian 30th nationally. All of that translates to the scoreboard, where Purdue is only averaging 25.4 points per game, ranking 66th nationally, and nearly got shut out last weekend against Penn State. They are also not moving the chains much (19.4 1st downs per game, 62nd), or converting a whole lot of 3rd downs (40.8%, 60th). Thus, the only conclusion to draw is that this offense has been average and inconsistent at best. They will have to muster their very best effort if they hope to keep the game on Saturday a competitive affair.
Quarterbacks
QB #12 Curtis Painter (6-4, 230, SR, Lincoln HS, Vincennes, IN)
Painter came into the 2008 season having thrown for almost 4000 yards the previous 2 campaigns, and he looked to be poised for a big finish with a senior-laden team. Hopes of pushing for a magical season were quickly dashed as they let the Oregon game slip away, and things have gone so poorly that Painter was benched in the 4th quarter last weekend. His 2008 numbers thus far are way off of his previous pace, as he is not on pace to break 3000 yards or throw for more than 12 TDs if the first 5 games are extrapolated, after throwing for almost 4000 and 29 TDs in 2007. After starting the season well against Northern Colorado, Painter struggled against Oregon, throwing for 207 yards and 2 INTs. He bounced back with a reasonable effort against Central Michigan, and then lit up Notre Dame for 359 yards and 2 TDs, albeit in a losing effort. He was, however, subpar at best last week against Penn State, throwing for only 112 yards, and INT, and not leading his team to any points. The game announcers last weekend also continually pointed out that Painter has yet to beat a ranked team, and given the struggles of Michigan this season, his last chance for a real signature win (though undoubtedly not his last game against a ranked team) comes this weekend.
Backing up Painter is fellow senior Joe Elliott (#14). Elliott entered last week's game in the 4th quarter and completed 3 of 5 passes, leading his team to their only points of the afternoon. One wonders if Tiller will have a shorter leash with Painter this week, and if Elliott might see the field a bit if Painter struggles early. As the backup last year he threw for only 14 yards, so his experience is limited, though he's been in the program for a long time so he knows the offense well.
QB Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Purdue versus Ohio State QBs
Painter (P/R): 110/191 (57.6%), 1225 yards, 5 TDs, 5 INTs, 114.9 rating; 26/11, 0 TDs
Pryor (P/R): 42/65 (64.6%), 440 yards, 5 TDs, 2 INTs, 140.7 rating; 62/312, 4 TDs
Painter is off of his previous pace from the last 2 seasons, and has not performed well against the 2 better defenses he has played against. It is difficult to see how this weekend will be any easier on him than Penn State was last week. Pryor on the other hand already has beaten a ranked team on the road in the Big Ten after leading a game-winning drive last weekend, and despite looking uncomfortable for stretches, played a relatively good ballgame throughout. There is no doubt now, however, that he has it when it counts, so if this game is close, Pryor can deliver the goods. Boeckman also gives the Buckeyes an experienced and serviceable 2nd option of it becomes necessary.
Edge: Ohio State
Running Backs
TB #24 Kory Sheets (6-0, 206, SR, Bloomfield HS, Manchester, CT)
Sheets is a very good fit for this kind of offense, and he has had a very successful career at Purdue. Though he has never gained 1000 yards in a season, he has averaged about 5 yards per carry, and scored double digit TDs in the previous 3 seasons. He's also a good receiver and with good size, is a capable blocker in the passing game. He has good speed and is bigger than one might think at first glance, so he can run it fast, but can also still bust it between the tackles. This season, the team is relying on him more with the struggles in the passing game, and he is on pace for career highs for attempts, yards, TDs, catches, and receiving yards. He is the most valuable player on the offense, and should not be taken at all lightly by Buckeye fans, let alone the Buckeye defense.
One of the reasons Sheets is so indispensable is that there is very little experience behind him. As Purdue runs the single back spread, there are very few opportunities for other backs to get involved. Backing up Sheets is sophomore Dan Dierking (#25). He's a smaller back who has gotten very limited opportunities to carry the football (3 carries, 10 yards). Converted quarterback Justin Siller (#5) has also been an occasional option (12 carries). Fullback Frank Halliburton (#44) will also see an occasional carry (7).
RB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Purdue versus Ohio State RBs
Sheets: 93/498 yards, 8 TDs, 5.4 YPC; 17 rec/139 yards, 0 TDs, 8.2 YPR
Dierking: 3/10 yards, 0 TDs, 3.3 YPC; 0 rec/0 yards, 0 TDs, 0.0 YPR
C Wells: 49/385 yards, 2 TDs, 7.9 YPC; 4 rec/10 yards, 0 TDs, 2.5 YPR
Herron: 58/262 yards, 1 TD, 4.5 YPC; 5 rec/27 yards, 0 TDs, 5.4 YPR
Saine: 19/65 yards, 1 TD, 3.4 YPC; 2 rec/17 yards, 0 TDs, 8.5 YPR
The value and quality of Sheets should not be underestimated by looking at the stats sheet. Though this is a pass-first team, Sheets is their most important and valuable weapon, and is one of the better backs in the conference. Wells, however, looks to be in excellent form, and when he is, very few can stay in the same conversation. Now that he appears to be recovered from his nagging injury, at least performance-wise, he is capable of putting the team on his back and carrying them to victory against quality opponents, something Buckeye fans have seen often enough to be accustomed to it. The Buckeyes also have quite a bit of experienced depth at the position, something the Boilermakers do not have.
Edge: Ohio State
Wide Receivers
WR #6 Desmond Tardy (6-1, 199, SR, Warren Central HS, Indianapolis, IN)
WR #21 Greg Orton (6-3, 199, SR, Wayne HS, Dayton, OH)
WR #19 Brandon Whittington (6-2, 213, SR, Collingswood HS, Collingswood, NJ)
Orton is the one major holdover for this crew, coming off a season where he caught 67 passes for 752 yards and 3 TDs, putting him amongst the team leaders in 2007. This year, he leads the team in catches, and appears to have somewhat of a possession receiver role. He played very well against Oregon (9 catches, 82 yards) and Notre Dame (9 catches, 90 yards), so he is capable of putting up a good day on a quality opponent. He caught 10 passes for 91 yards last year against Buckeyes, and so he will bring experience and leadership for this unit into this game. Tardy has burst onto the scene as a major deep threat, given his opportunity to start after catching only 10 passes a year ago. He torched Northern Colorado for 112 yards on only 3 catches, caught a TD against Central Michigan, and was unstoppable against the Irish, catching 10 passes for 175 yards and a TD. He was limited to 2 catches for 27 yards last week by Penn State, so the Buckeyes might focus a great deal of attention to him in order to slow down the passing game. Whittington is a program veteran with good size. He has 10 catches for 88 yards thus far, so he hasn?t been a major factor.
Keith Smith (#8), a converted safety, appears to be a consistent option to add some quality depth for Purdue. His catches and yards have actually outpaced Whittington's, and he is 3rd on the team in both categories. Senior Aaron Valentin (#17) may also get an occasional target (4 catches, 79 yards, TD).
WR Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Tardy: 25 catches, 393 yards, 2 TDs, 15.7 YPR
Orton: 30 catches, 330 yards, 1 TD, 11.0 YPR
Smith: 19 catches, 198 yards, 1 TD, 10.4 YPR
Robiskie: 22 catches, 213 yards, 4 TDs, 9.7 YPR
Hartline: 13 catches, 226 yards, 2 TDs, 17.4 YPR
Small: 16 catches, 112 yards, 0 TDs, 7.0 YPR
No players here really put big-time scares into defensive coordinators. Tardy and Hartline are capable of hauling in long ones, while Orton and Robiskie have smaller YPC averages. Neither group has necessarily lived up to lofty expectations, but both have quality experience and veteran leadership. Not a whole lot to separate these units, as both have reasonably good 3rd and 4th options.
Edge: Even
Tight Ends
TE #80 Jerry Wasikowski (6-4, 255, SR, Cudahy HS, Cudahy, WI)
The TE is not really a position of emphasis this season for the Boilermakers, but Wasikowski is a former walk-on who has good size and is a capable blocker. He had played the past 2 seasons as a reserve, and does not appear to be a large factor in the passing game.
TE Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Purdue versus Ohio State TEs
Wasikowski: 3 catches, 19 yards, 0 TDs, 6.3 YPR
Beckum: 6 catches, 68 yards, 0 TDs, 11.3 YPR
Nicol: 4 catches, 32 yards, 1 TD, 8.0 YPR
Ballard: 2 catches, 34 yards, 0 TDs, 17.0 YPR
Neither team will see their TEs work much in the passing game. Both have capable blockers. As Ohio State utilizes the position more regularly in the run-blocking game, the edge goes to the Buckeyes.
Edge: Ohio State
Offensive Line
LT #51 Garret Miller (6-8, 275, SR, Bay City HS, Bay City, TX)
LG #50 Eric Hedstrom (6-6, 292, SR, Prospect HS, Arlington Hills, IL)
C #78 Corey Benton (6-3, 287, SR, Cathedral HS, Indianapolis, IN)
RG #72 Justin Pierce (6-4, 314, JR, Tom Bean HS, Tom Bean, TX)
RT #61 Zach Jones (6-5, 300, SR, Plainfield HS, Plainfield, IN)
The Boilermakers have a senior-laden group, but will run out only one starter, RT Zach Jones, from last year's Buckeye game. All 5 lineman, however, have started all 5 games this season, so they are developing some continuity as they continue to play together. Jones is a good story, a former walk-on who burst out of nowhere last season to start 12 games at RT. Pierce, the biggest of the linemen, appeared in 11 games, starting 3 contests after Jordan Grimes got hurt, so he does have some quality game experience to fall back on. In the middle, Benton is another former walk-on who earned a scholarship last year and appeared in 11 games at center and guard. He was the winner of this year's prestigious "Pit Bull" award for tenacity and intensity in spring camp. There is less experience on the left side, where Miller is tall and lean for a LT, and played sparingly the past 2 seasons as a reserve. Hedstrom was hurt last year and is seeing his first significant action.
The Boilermakers do have some backups that are veterans of the program with considerable experience, as seniors Zach Reckman (#75) and Sean Sester (#74) are at the tackle spots. Reckman started all 13 games at left guard in 2007, so he has plenty of game experience. Sester had started all 38 games he had played at Purdue coming into the 2008 campaign. Jared Zwilling (#54) mans the interior after moving from defensive tackle in the spring.
OL Rating: C+
Head-to-Head: Purdue versus Ohio State OL
The Boilermakers offense has been a shell of its former self thus far in 2008. Does that start up front? It's hard to say, though Sheets has been able to run the ball effectively and Painter has been sacked only 8 times, so it appears the line is holding up. It is interesting that neither starting tackle from last season currently has their starting job in their senior season. That adds depth and veteran presence obviously, but is cause for pause. The Buckeyes have the running game going full force now, and it would seem that most of the early season issues have been worked out for the most part. Neither line jumps out, but give the Buckeyes the edge for the ability to control the clock and put together a drive when it matters most.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Offensive Analysis
The offenses in the Tiller era have been long feared, and the numbers they have put up in the passing game have traditionally been staggering. This year, in Coach Tiller's final season, the offense doesn't seem nearly as dangerous or effective. They do have the emotional high of trying to win one more big game for their coach to send him out with something to remember, and entering this game on the road with basically nothing to lose. That could give the Boilermakers some sort of edge, but one would have expected better after 5 games from a team so heavily senior-laden at every position. Purdue will put forth a game effort, but the talent level just does not seem to be there to compete with the elite teams offensively this season.
Overall Offensive Rating: C+
2008 Purdue Boilermakers Defensive PreviewLast weekend the Buckeyes saw what will probably in the future be regarded as the birth of a legend, as their freshman QB led them to a game-winning drive with about a minute left in the 4th quarter, on the road, in one of the toughest places to play in the conference, against a team with Big Ten title aspirations. This week, the challenge is completely different. Purdue comes in struggling, but playing in the final season of the Joe Tiller era. Tiller will be remembered for introducing "basketball on grass" to the Big Ten, reviving a moribund program, and producing the conference's equivalent of "the cradle of quarterbacks". However, the Boilermakers have been average in recent years, and there has been no signature victory in the Curtis Painter era, let alone in Tiller's final season. Looking at the schedule, with Michigan struggling this year, the game this Saturday is probably going to be the last chance for this team to send Coach Tiller out with something lasting to truly remember about his final season.
Looking up and down the roster, the offense is an immensely senior-laden group. It is difficult, therefore, to figure out why the Boilermakers have struggled to a 2-3 start. The Boilermakers, used to piling up yardage like it is going out of style, have been average at best. Their total yardage per game of 378.2 ranks them only 57th nationally, a stat very unlike most of Coach Tiller's successful teams. One does not expect Purdue to have large numbers on the ground, so their national ranking of 98th (117.2 YPG) is not a shock. What is surprising is that Purdue is barely mustering 250 yards passing per game (254.2), ranking a pedestrian 30th nationally. All of that translates to the scoreboard, where Purdue is only averaging 25.4 points per game, ranking 66th nationally, and nearly got shut out last weekend against Penn State. They are also not moving the chains much (19.4 1st downs per game, 62nd), or converting a whole lot of 3rd downs (40.8%, 60th). Thus, the only conclusion to draw is that this offense has been average and inconsistent at best. They will have to muster their very best effort if they hope to keep the game on Saturday a competitive affair.
Quarterbacks
QB #12 Curtis Painter (6-4, 230, SR, Lincoln HS, Vincennes, IN)
Painter came into the 2008 season having thrown for almost 4000 yards the previous 2 campaigns, and he looked to be poised for a big finish with a senior-laden team. Hopes of pushing for a magical season were quickly dashed as they let the Oregon game slip away, and things have gone so poorly that Painter was benched in the 4th quarter last weekend. His 2008 numbers thus far are way off of his previous pace, as he is not on pace to break 3000 yards or throw for more than 12 TDs if the first 5 games are extrapolated, after throwing for almost 4000 and 29 TDs in 2007. After starting the season well against Northern Colorado, Painter struggled against Oregon, throwing for 207 yards and 2 INTs. He bounced back with a reasonable effort against Central Michigan, and then lit up Notre Dame for 359 yards and 2 TDs, albeit in a losing effort. He was, however, subpar at best last week against Penn State, throwing for only 112 yards, and INT, and not leading his team to any points. The game announcers last weekend also continually pointed out that Painter has yet to beat a ranked team, and given the struggles of Michigan this season, his last chance for a real signature win (though undoubtedly not his last game against a ranked team) comes this weekend.
Backing up Painter is fellow senior Joe Elliott (#14). Elliott entered last week's game in the 4th quarter and completed 3 of 5 passes, leading his team to their only points of the afternoon. One wonders if Tiller will have a shorter leash with Painter this week, and if Elliott might see the field a bit if Painter struggles early. As the backup last year he threw for only 14 yards, so his experience is limited, though he's been in the program for a long time so he knows the offense well.
QB Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Purdue versus Ohio State QBs
Painter (P/R): 110/191 (57.6%), 1225 yards, 5 TDs, 5 INTs, 114.9 rating; 26/11, 0 TDs
Pryor (P/R): 42/65 (64.6%), 440 yards, 5 TDs, 2 INTs, 140.7 rating; 62/312, 4 TDs
Painter is off of his previous pace from the last 2 seasons, and has not performed well against the 2 better defenses he has played against. It is difficult to see how this weekend will be any easier on him than Penn State was last week. Pryor on the other hand already has beaten a ranked team on the road in the Big Ten after leading a game-winning drive last weekend, and despite looking uncomfortable for stretches, played a relatively good ballgame throughout. There is no doubt now, however, that he has it when it counts, so if this game is close, Pryor can deliver the goods. Boeckman also gives the Buckeyes an experienced and serviceable 2nd option of it becomes necessary.
Edge: Ohio State
Running Backs
TB #24 Kory Sheets (6-0, 206, SR, Bloomfield HS, Manchester, CT)
Sheets is a very good fit for this kind of offense, and he has had a very successful career at Purdue. Though he has never gained 1000 yards in a season, he has averaged about 5 yards per carry, and scored double digit TDs in the previous 3 seasons. He's also a good receiver and with good size, is a capable blocker in the passing game. He has good speed and is bigger than one might think at first glance, so he can run it fast, but can also still bust it between the tackles. This season, the team is relying on him more with the struggles in the passing game, and he is on pace for career highs for attempts, yards, TDs, catches, and receiving yards. He is the most valuable player on the offense, and should not be taken at all lightly by Buckeye fans, let alone the Buckeye defense.
One of the reasons Sheets is so indispensable is that there is very little experience behind him. As Purdue runs the single back spread, there are very few opportunities for other backs to get involved. Backing up Sheets is sophomore Dan Dierking (#25). He's a smaller back who has gotten very limited opportunities to carry the football (3 carries, 10 yards). Converted quarterback Justin Siller (#5) has also been an occasional option (12 carries). Fullback Frank Halliburton (#44) will also see an occasional carry (7).
RB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Purdue versus Ohio State RBs
Sheets: 93/498 yards, 8 TDs, 5.4 YPC; 17 rec/139 yards, 0 TDs, 8.2 YPR
Dierking: 3/10 yards, 0 TDs, 3.3 YPC; 0 rec/0 yards, 0 TDs, 0.0 YPR
C Wells: 49/385 yards, 2 TDs, 7.9 YPC; 4 rec/10 yards, 0 TDs, 2.5 YPR
Herron: 58/262 yards, 1 TD, 4.5 YPC; 5 rec/27 yards, 0 TDs, 5.4 YPR
Saine: 19/65 yards, 1 TD, 3.4 YPC; 2 rec/17 yards, 0 TDs, 8.5 YPR
The value and quality of Sheets should not be underestimated by looking at the stats sheet. Though this is a pass-first team, Sheets is their most important and valuable weapon, and is one of the better backs in the conference. Wells, however, looks to be in excellent form, and when he is, very few can stay in the same conversation. Now that he appears to be recovered from his nagging injury, at least performance-wise, he is capable of putting the team on his back and carrying them to victory against quality opponents, something Buckeye fans have seen often enough to be accustomed to it. The Buckeyes also have quite a bit of experienced depth at the position, something the Boilermakers do not have.
Edge: Ohio State
Wide Receivers
WR #6 Desmond Tardy (6-1, 199, SR, Warren Central HS, Indianapolis, IN)
WR #21 Greg Orton (6-3, 199, SR, Wayne HS, Dayton, OH)
WR #19 Brandon Whittington (6-2, 213, SR, Collingswood HS, Collingswood, NJ)
Orton is the one major holdover for this crew, coming off a season where he caught 67 passes for 752 yards and 3 TDs, putting him amongst the team leaders in 2007. This year, he leads the team in catches, and appears to have somewhat of a possession receiver role. He played very well against Oregon (9 catches, 82 yards) and Notre Dame (9 catches, 90 yards), so he is capable of putting up a good day on a quality opponent. He caught 10 passes for 91 yards last year against Buckeyes, and so he will bring experience and leadership for this unit into this game. Tardy has burst onto the scene as a major deep threat, given his opportunity to start after catching only 10 passes a year ago. He torched Northern Colorado for 112 yards on only 3 catches, caught a TD against Central Michigan, and was unstoppable against the Irish, catching 10 passes for 175 yards and a TD. He was limited to 2 catches for 27 yards last week by Penn State, so the Buckeyes might focus a great deal of attention to him in order to slow down the passing game. Whittington is a program veteran with good size. He has 10 catches for 88 yards thus far, so he hasn?t been a major factor.
Keith Smith (#8), a converted safety, appears to be a consistent option to add some quality depth for Purdue. His catches and yards have actually outpaced Whittington's, and he is 3rd on the team in both categories. Senior Aaron Valentin (#17) may also get an occasional target (4 catches, 79 yards, TD).
WR Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Tardy: 25 catches, 393 yards, 2 TDs, 15.7 YPR
Orton: 30 catches, 330 yards, 1 TD, 11.0 YPR
Smith: 19 catches, 198 yards, 1 TD, 10.4 YPR
Robiskie: 22 catches, 213 yards, 4 TDs, 9.7 YPR
Hartline: 13 catches, 226 yards, 2 TDs, 17.4 YPR
Small: 16 catches, 112 yards, 0 TDs, 7.0 YPR
No players here really put big-time scares into defensive coordinators. Tardy and Hartline are capable of hauling in long ones, while Orton and Robiskie have smaller YPC averages. Neither group has necessarily lived up to lofty expectations, but both have quality experience and veteran leadership. Not a whole lot to separate these units, as both have reasonably good 3rd and 4th options.
Edge: Even
Tight Ends
TE #80 Jerry Wasikowski (6-4, 255, SR, Cudahy HS, Cudahy, WI)
The TE is not really a position of emphasis this season for the Boilermakers, but Wasikowski is a former walk-on who has good size and is a capable blocker. He had played the past 2 seasons as a reserve, and does not appear to be a large factor in the passing game.
TE Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Purdue versus Ohio State TEs
Wasikowski: 3 catches, 19 yards, 0 TDs, 6.3 YPR
Beckum: 6 catches, 68 yards, 0 TDs, 11.3 YPR
Nicol: 4 catches, 32 yards, 1 TD, 8.0 YPR
Ballard: 2 catches, 34 yards, 0 TDs, 17.0 YPR
Neither team will see their TEs work much in the passing game. Both have capable blockers. As Ohio State utilizes the position more regularly in the run-blocking game, the edge goes to the Buckeyes.
Edge: Ohio State
Offensive Line
LT #51 Garret Miller (6-8, 275, SR, Bay City HS, Bay City, TX)
LG #50 Eric Hedstrom (6-6, 292, SR, Prospect HS, Arlington Hills, IL)
C #78 Corey Benton (6-3, 287, SR, Cathedral HS, Indianapolis, IN)
RG #72 Justin Pierce (6-4, 314, JR, Tom Bean HS, Tom Bean, TX)
RT #61 Zach Jones (6-5, 300, SR, Plainfield HS, Plainfield, IN)
The Boilermakers have a senior-laden group, but will run out only one starter, RT Zach Jones, from last year's Buckeye game. All 5 lineman, however, have started all 5 games this season, so they are developing some continuity as they continue to play together. Jones is a good story, a former walk-on who burst out of nowhere last season to start 12 games at RT. Pierce, the biggest of the linemen, appeared in 11 games, starting 3 contests after Jordan Grimes got hurt, so he does have some quality game experience to fall back on. In the middle, Benton is another former walk-on who earned a scholarship last year and appeared in 11 games at center and guard. He was the winner of this year's prestigious "Pit Bull" award for tenacity and intensity in spring camp. There is less experience on the left side, where Miller is tall and lean for a LT, and played sparingly the past 2 seasons as a reserve. Hedstrom was hurt last year and is seeing his first significant action.
The Boilermakers do have some backups that are veterans of the program with considerable experience, as seniors Zach Reckman (#75) and Sean Sester (#74) are at the tackle spots. Reckman started all 13 games at left guard in 2007, so he has plenty of game experience. Sester had started all 38 games he had played at Purdue coming into the 2008 campaign. Jared Zwilling (#54) mans the interior after moving from defensive tackle in the spring.
OL Rating: C+
Head-to-Head: Purdue versus Ohio State OL
The Boilermakers offense has been a shell of its former self thus far in 2008. Does that start up front? It's hard to say, though Sheets has been able to run the ball effectively and Painter has been sacked only 8 times, so it appears the line is holding up. It is interesting that neither starting tackle from last season currently has their starting job in their senior season. That adds depth and veteran presence obviously, but is cause for pause. The Buckeyes have the running game going full force now, and it would seem that most of the early season issues have been worked out for the most part. Neither line jumps out, but give the Buckeyes the edge for the ability to control the clock and put together a drive when it matters most.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Offensive Analysis
The offenses in the Tiller era have been long feared, and the numbers they have put up in the passing game have traditionally been staggering. This year, in Coach Tiller's final season, the offense doesn't seem nearly as dangerous or effective. They do have the emotional high of trying to win one more big game for their coach to send him out with something to remember, and entering this game on the road with basically nothing to lose. That could give the Boilermakers some sort of edge, but one would have expected better after 5 games from a team so heavily senior-laden at every position. Purdue will put forth a game effort, but the talent level just does not seem to be there to compete with the elite teams offensively this season.
Overall Offensive Rating: C+
Returning Starters: 6
Brock Spack returns for his 12th season as Purdue's Defensive Coordinator. Spack has been responsible for some of Purdue's best defenses in their history, notably the 2002 when they were the top rated D in the Big Ten in terms of total yards against, 317.2. That group improved on the heels of the 3rd rated 2000 and 2001 defenses. The 2003 group was also third in total defense.
Since then, however, Purdue's defense has not been on par with the 2000-2003 run. While the 2007 group improved over the preceeding two years, it gave up 24.8 points and 385.3 yards per game, finishing 8th in the conference. While the 2008 group had hoped to continue the improving track, through the first five games of 2008 it does not appear to be in the cards. Purdue finds itself last in the Big Ten in total defense, giving up 435.8 yards per contest to go along with 25 points surrendered. 196 of those yards come on the ground with the remaining 239.8 coming via the passing game. The have not created many turnovers, recovering only 2 of 6 fumbles and intercepting just 4 passes thus far.
There are signs of hope, however, as Purdue tightens up when opponents reach the red zone, affording scores 75% of the time (18-24), but only 46% of the time are those scores TDs (11-24). Likewise, Purdue's 3rd down defense has been solid, allowing the conversion just 33% of the time (25/75). It therefore seems clear, Purdue's biggest problem is the big play and notably long runs from opposing backs. Perhaps owing to insufficient LB depth, Purdue is often in nickel and thus has been exposed by backs less talented than Chris Wells. The yards may come in huge chunks this week, as Beanie continues to improve from his toe injury.
Defensive Line
LE #71 Alex Magee (6-4 295 SR)
LT #92 Mike Neal (6-4 293 SR)
RT #90 Ryan Baker (6-5 280 SR)
RE #94 Ryan Kerrigan (6-4 255 SO)
While three of the linemen are returning starters, Purdue is replacing leading rusher Ciff Avril with sophomore and former TE Ryan Kerrigan. While Kerrigan has a bright future, he is not at Avril's level right now. That said, he is tops among starting linemen with 21 tackles, 1 for loss (sack). Manning the other end position is Magee, who is a sizeable but not particularly speedy option. More suited for the interior line, Magee has been good at getting behind the LOS, making 9 Tackles, 3.5 for loss with a team leading 2 sacks (tie). Baker won the starting job inside in fall 2007, but did not live up to his 6 sack Sophomore campaign. Now a Senior, Baker needs to show more consistency, especially against the run. He has 13 tackles, 4 for loss with .5 a sack and a Fumble recovery through 5 games. Finally, Neal gets the nod this season as the starter. A frequent contributor in 2007s rotation, Neal is quicker than most but not strong against the run, as the over-all rushing numbers against attest. He has 13 Tackles, 4 for loss and 2 sacks (tie) thus far.
Depth comes from ends #95 Kenyon Brown (6-3 241 SR), and #97 Gerald Gooden (6-3 235 SO) and tackles #99 Nick Mondek (6-6 275 SO), and #45 Jermaine Guynn (6-1 288 SR). Brown was a starter in 2007, but finds himself working behind Magee. A former linebacker, the 241 pounder has trouble against the run which is no doubt why Purdue has gone with Magee instead who provides more beef. In any case, Brown will see action, and has 12 Tackles with 1.5 for loss (both sacks) in 5 games. Guynn has played in each game, recording 11 tackles, 1.5 for loss with a sack, while the speedy Gerald Gooden has managed 10 tackles, but three for loss. Mondek, one of the class of 2007s more talented recruits, has 3 tackles.
DL Rating: C-
Head-to-Head: Purdue versus OSU DL
If there is a place where teams can match the Buckeyes on defense it is on the D-Line. The Buckeyes have struggled to get pressure with their front 4 alone, and have been softer up the gut than they need to be for long term success. Both the Boilermakers and Buckeyes need to establsih stronger pass rushing presence to be considered among the league's top units. But, even with Ohio State's troubles, they have an advantage over the Boilermaker's group by nearly 100 yards of rush defense. Thus, the edge goes to Ohio State here.
Edge: Ohio State
Linebackers
OLB #49 Nickcaro Golding (6-5 225 SO)
MLB #42 Anthony Heygood (6-2 230 SR)
WLB #30 Joe Holland (6-1 211 SO)
Heygood is the team's leading returning tackler from 2007 where he played the strongside. A big hitter and a former running back, Heygood has decent speed but could be quicker. He leads Purdue in 2008 with 44 tackles, 2 for loss with a 2 yard INT. Holland came to Purdue as a 205 pound DB out of Indianapolis. He's now being moved in to the weakside linebacker role where Purdue may take advantage of his speed and coverage skills. While not the biggest or strongest option at stopping the run, thus far the Sophomore has played fairly well and is tied for 2nd on the team with 33 tackles, with .5 for loss. On the strongside is Golding, another sophomore who is playing out of the position he was recruited from in High School. A former DE, Golding is learning to play without putting his hand down and has 11 tackles thus far. It should also be noted, Purdue is missing Jason Werner who remains listed as "out" owing to an injured back.
Depth comes from sophomore #57 Tyler Haston (6-3 222), and freshmen #32 Albert Evans (6-0 195), #81 DeVarro Greaves (6-2 215), and #47 Chris Carlino (6-2 215). Not only is the depth young, with 3 freshmen and a sophomore composing it, but there is no physically dominating specimen among them which might go a long way towards shoring up the run defense. Only Carlino has seen action in each of Purdue's 5 contest, recording 7 tackles with .5 for loss. Haston has played in 3 gamesand has 5 tackles, while Greaves has a sack to go along with his 3 tackles in 2 games. Evans has not yet recorded a tackle.
LB Rating: C-
Head-to-Head: Purdue versus OSU LBs
Heygood is solid enough, but after him there is little to get excited about. Purdue does not enjoy a prototypical LB at any of the positions with each being undersized and playing out of the position of their recruitment. There is little experience, both in terms of the starting unit (with two Sophs) and on the bench and thus the Purdue unit can be exploited. With Purdue's run D woes, there needs to be a stronger run stopping option, and there simply is not. Ohio State, meanwhile, has veteran leadership in Laurinaitis and Freeman who, while being relatively quiet, remain two of the top 3 tacklers on the team - Ross Homan being the other. The cupboards are full for the Buckeyes, while Purdue explores options. The clear advantage at LB is in favor of Ohio State.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
RCB #7 Brandon King (5-11 192 SR)
FS #2 Torri Williams (6-2 208 SR)
SS #22 Dwight McLean (6-1 203 JR)
LCB #9 David Pender (6-1 180 JR)
Gone is Purdue's leading tackler from 2007, Terrell Vinson who is being replaced by David Pender. Pender moved his way in to the starting role in 2007 where he had 44 tackles and a pick. He has excellent speed and a sound foundation upon which to build his game. He has 15 tackles and 6 pass break ups thus far. King came to Purdue as a QB who thought he might play WR, but ended up starting each game in 2007 as a free safety. An excellent athlete, King has a 60 yard INT return to go along with his 24 tackles (0.5 for loss) and 4 pass break ups. Williams came to Purdue with outstanding talent and potential but has had a veriety of injuries and off the field incidents keeping him from reaching those possibilities. While he's managed to keep his nose clean thus far, and has not suffered any injury, he is tied for second in tackles with 22, with .5 for loss and a pass break-up. Rounding out the starters is McLean who is listed as the starter this week in place of the injured Frank Duong (knee). A back-up entering 2008, McLean has 19 tackles, .5 for loss with a 14 yard INT and a fumble recovery.
Reserves include corners #10 Royce Adams (6-0 190 JR), and #4 Fabian Martin (5-11 199 SR) and safeties # 31 Josh McKinley (6-1 218 SO) and #43 Adam Wolf (5-11 204 SR). Leading the production thus far is McKinley who would most likely get the nod if Williams falters or gets hurt. The talented sophomore had a solid freshman campaign, working his way in to getting a start against Indiana before the season closed. He has 13 tackles. Royce Adams has played in each of Purdue's games and has recorded 4 tackles. Once the starter at corner, Adams needs to improve his coverage skills to see the field more often. Likewise, both Wolf and Martin have 4 tackles, while seeing action in every game thus far.
DB Rating: C+
Head-to-Head: Purdue versus OSU DBs
Purdue's defense is better against the pass than against the run, but that's not saying much. While teams have little trouble moving the ball on the ground, Purdue's secondary is still giving up nearly 240 yards a game. This may well be because they have to spend so much time worrying about run support, but whatever the case, they can be exploited for yards. Ohio State, in contrast, has been fine in coverage giving up just 155 yards per game, even while facing a number of teams who live and die by the pass and the more than competent USC Trojans. The Boilermakers, likewise, have had trouble creating turnovers, while the Buckeyes have 9 INTs thus far. On Pender or King's best day, they are still not as skilled as Malcolm Jenkins, though few are. The Buckeyes also have more depth (and size), in Jermale Hines, Chimdi Chekwa, and Jamario O'Neal. It was against Purdue in 2007 that Chekwa proved he's possibily Ohio State's next great corner, while Hines has done nothing but make plays all over the field when he's been in.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Defensive Analysis
Purdue appears to be taking a step backwards after seeing some improvement last season on the defensive side of the football. They have a very hard time with the run, giving up nearly 200 yards per contest. It is quite possible that Chris Wells gets 200 yards, and Terrelle Pryor is a good bet to break 100 as well. While the secondary is generally able, teams can move the ball through the air against Purdue as well. Given that the Buckeyes should anticipate success on the ground, there may not be much passing on Saturday. That said, don't expect Tressel to completely button up Pryor's arm, as the freshman continues to mature. All that said, Purdue did hold Penn State to nearly 80 yards below their average in a 20-6 loss, so it is possible, even if unlikely, that the Boilers "put it together" in the Horseshoe. The Buckeyes should try and hit them with a knockout punch early, as their confidence could grow if they're able to "hang around."
Overall Defensive Rating: C
2008 Purdue Boilermakers Special Teams PreviewBrock Spack returns for his 12th season as Purdue's Defensive Coordinator. Spack has been responsible for some of Purdue's best defenses in their history, notably the 2002 when they were the top rated D in the Big Ten in terms of total yards against, 317.2. That group improved on the heels of the 3rd rated 2000 and 2001 defenses. The 2003 group was also third in total defense.
Since then, however, Purdue's defense has not been on par with the 2000-2003 run. While the 2007 group improved over the preceeding two years, it gave up 24.8 points and 385.3 yards per game, finishing 8th in the conference. While the 2008 group had hoped to continue the improving track, through the first five games of 2008 it does not appear to be in the cards. Purdue finds itself last in the Big Ten in total defense, giving up 435.8 yards per contest to go along with 25 points surrendered. 196 of those yards come on the ground with the remaining 239.8 coming via the passing game. The have not created many turnovers, recovering only 2 of 6 fumbles and intercepting just 4 passes thus far.
There are signs of hope, however, as Purdue tightens up when opponents reach the red zone, affording scores 75% of the time (18-24), but only 46% of the time are those scores TDs (11-24). Likewise, Purdue's 3rd down defense has been solid, allowing the conversion just 33% of the time (25/75). It therefore seems clear, Purdue's biggest problem is the big play and notably long runs from opposing backs. Perhaps owing to insufficient LB depth, Purdue is often in nickel and thus has been exposed by backs less talented than Chris Wells. The yards may come in huge chunks this week, as Beanie continues to improve from his toe injury.
Defensive Line
LE #71 Alex Magee (6-4 295 SR)
LT #92 Mike Neal (6-4 293 SR)
RT #90 Ryan Baker (6-5 280 SR)
RE #94 Ryan Kerrigan (6-4 255 SO)
While three of the linemen are returning starters, Purdue is replacing leading rusher Ciff Avril with sophomore and former TE Ryan Kerrigan. While Kerrigan has a bright future, he is not at Avril's level right now. That said, he is tops among starting linemen with 21 tackles, 1 for loss (sack). Manning the other end position is Magee, who is a sizeable but not particularly speedy option. More suited for the interior line, Magee has been good at getting behind the LOS, making 9 Tackles, 3.5 for loss with a team leading 2 sacks (tie). Baker won the starting job inside in fall 2007, but did not live up to his 6 sack Sophomore campaign. Now a Senior, Baker needs to show more consistency, especially against the run. He has 13 tackles, 4 for loss with .5 a sack and a Fumble recovery through 5 games. Finally, Neal gets the nod this season as the starter. A frequent contributor in 2007s rotation, Neal is quicker than most but not strong against the run, as the over-all rushing numbers against attest. He has 13 Tackles, 4 for loss and 2 sacks (tie) thus far.
Depth comes from ends #95 Kenyon Brown (6-3 241 SR), and #97 Gerald Gooden (6-3 235 SO) and tackles #99 Nick Mondek (6-6 275 SO), and #45 Jermaine Guynn (6-1 288 SR). Brown was a starter in 2007, but finds himself working behind Magee. A former linebacker, the 241 pounder has trouble against the run which is no doubt why Purdue has gone with Magee instead who provides more beef. In any case, Brown will see action, and has 12 Tackles with 1.5 for loss (both sacks) in 5 games. Guynn has played in each game, recording 11 tackles, 1.5 for loss with a sack, while the speedy Gerald Gooden has managed 10 tackles, but three for loss. Mondek, one of the class of 2007s more talented recruits, has 3 tackles.
DL Rating: C-
Head-to-Head: Purdue versus OSU DL
If there is a place where teams can match the Buckeyes on defense it is on the D-Line. The Buckeyes have struggled to get pressure with their front 4 alone, and have been softer up the gut than they need to be for long term success. Both the Boilermakers and Buckeyes need to establsih stronger pass rushing presence to be considered among the league's top units. But, even with Ohio State's troubles, they have an advantage over the Boilermaker's group by nearly 100 yards of rush defense. Thus, the edge goes to Ohio State here.
Edge: Ohio State
Linebackers
OLB #49 Nickcaro Golding (6-5 225 SO)
MLB #42 Anthony Heygood (6-2 230 SR)
WLB #30 Joe Holland (6-1 211 SO)
Heygood is the team's leading returning tackler from 2007 where he played the strongside. A big hitter and a former running back, Heygood has decent speed but could be quicker. He leads Purdue in 2008 with 44 tackles, 2 for loss with a 2 yard INT. Holland came to Purdue as a 205 pound DB out of Indianapolis. He's now being moved in to the weakside linebacker role where Purdue may take advantage of his speed and coverage skills. While not the biggest or strongest option at stopping the run, thus far the Sophomore has played fairly well and is tied for 2nd on the team with 33 tackles, with .5 for loss. On the strongside is Golding, another sophomore who is playing out of the position he was recruited from in High School. A former DE, Golding is learning to play without putting his hand down and has 11 tackles thus far. It should also be noted, Purdue is missing Jason Werner who remains listed as "out" owing to an injured back.
Depth comes from sophomore #57 Tyler Haston (6-3 222), and freshmen #32 Albert Evans (6-0 195), #81 DeVarro Greaves (6-2 215), and #47 Chris Carlino (6-2 215). Not only is the depth young, with 3 freshmen and a sophomore composing it, but there is no physically dominating specimen among them which might go a long way towards shoring up the run defense. Only Carlino has seen action in each of Purdue's 5 contest, recording 7 tackles with .5 for loss. Haston has played in 3 gamesand has 5 tackles, while Greaves has a sack to go along with his 3 tackles in 2 games. Evans has not yet recorded a tackle.
LB Rating: C-
Head-to-Head: Purdue versus OSU LBs
Heygood is solid enough, but after him there is little to get excited about. Purdue does not enjoy a prototypical LB at any of the positions with each being undersized and playing out of the position of their recruitment. There is little experience, both in terms of the starting unit (with two Sophs) and on the bench and thus the Purdue unit can be exploited. With Purdue's run D woes, there needs to be a stronger run stopping option, and there simply is not. Ohio State, meanwhile, has veteran leadership in Laurinaitis and Freeman who, while being relatively quiet, remain two of the top 3 tacklers on the team - Ross Homan being the other. The cupboards are full for the Buckeyes, while Purdue explores options. The clear advantage at LB is in favor of Ohio State.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
RCB #7 Brandon King (5-11 192 SR)
FS #2 Torri Williams (6-2 208 SR)
SS #22 Dwight McLean (6-1 203 JR)
LCB #9 David Pender (6-1 180 JR)
Gone is Purdue's leading tackler from 2007, Terrell Vinson who is being replaced by David Pender. Pender moved his way in to the starting role in 2007 where he had 44 tackles and a pick. He has excellent speed and a sound foundation upon which to build his game. He has 15 tackles and 6 pass break ups thus far. King came to Purdue as a QB who thought he might play WR, but ended up starting each game in 2007 as a free safety. An excellent athlete, King has a 60 yard INT return to go along with his 24 tackles (0.5 for loss) and 4 pass break ups. Williams came to Purdue with outstanding talent and potential but has had a veriety of injuries and off the field incidents keeping him from reaching those possibilities. While he's managed to keep his nose clean thus far, and has not suffered any injury, he is tied for second in tackles with 22, with .5 for loss and a pass break-up. Rounding out the starters is McLean who is listed as the starter this week in place of the injured Frank Duong (knee). A back-up entering 2008, McLean has 19 tackles, .5 for loss with a 14 yard INT and a fumble recovery.
Reserves include corners #10 Royce Adams (6-0 190 JR), and #4 Fabian Martin (5-11 199 SR) and safeties # 31 Josh McKinley (6-1 218 SO) and #43 Adam Wolf (5-11 204 SR). Leading the production thus far is McKinley who would most likely get the nod if Williams falters or gets hurt. The talented sophomore had a solid freshman campaign, working his way in to getting a start against Indiana before the season closed. He has 13 tackles. Royce Adams has played in each of Purdue's games and has recorded 4 tackles. Once the starter at corner, Adams needs to improve his coverage skills to see the field more often. Likewise, both Wolf and Martin have 4 tackles, while seeing action in every game thus far.
DB Rating: C+
Head-to-Head: Purdue versus OSU DBs
Purdue's defense is better against the pass than against the run, but that's not saying much. While teams have little trouble moving the ball on the ground, Purdue's secondary is still giving up nearly 240 yards a game. This may well be because they have to spend so much time worrying about run support, but whatever the case, they can be exploited for yards. Ohio State, in contrast, has been fine in coverage giving up just 155 yards per game, even while facing a number of teams who live and die by the pass and the more than competent USC Trojans. The Boilermakers, likewise, have had trouble creating turnovers, while the Buckeyes have 9 INTs thus far. On Pender or King's best day, they are still not as skilled as Malcolm Jenkins, though few are. The Buckeyes also have more depth (and size), in Jermale Hines, Chimdi Chekwa, and Jamario O'Neal. It was against Purdue in 2007 that Chekwa proved he's possibily Ohio State's next great corner, while Hines has done nothing but make plays all over the field when he's been in.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Defensive Analysis
Purdue appears to be taking a step backwards after seeing some improvement last season on the defensive side of the football. They have a very hard time with the run, giving up nearly 200 yards per contest. It is quite possible that Chris Wells gets 200 yards, and Terrelle Pryor is a good bet to break 100 as well. While the secondary is generally able, teams can move the ball through the air against Purdue as well. Given that the Buckeyes should anticipate success on the ground, there may not be much passing on Saturday. That said, don't expect Tressel to completely button up Pryor's arm, as the freshman continues to mature. All that said, Purdue did hold Penn State to nearly 80 yards below their average in a 20-6 loss, so it is possible, even if unlikely, that the Boilers "put it together" in the Horseshoe. The Buckeyes should try and hit them with a knockout punch early, as their confidence could grow if they're able to "hang around."
Overall Defensive Rating: C
2007 Stats
Punt Returns (team) 19 for 141 yds 7.42 avg 81st in the Nation
Punt Returns (indiv) None in top 100
Kickoff Returns (team) 60 for 1434 23.9 avg 3 TDs 16th in Nation
Kickoff Returns (indiv) Dorien Bryant (graduated) 36 for 1007 27.97 avg 2 TDs 20th in Nation
Punt Return Defense 24 for 169 yds 7.04 avg 35th in the Nation
Kickoff Return Defense 76 for 1284 16.89 avg 2nd in the Nation
Punting Jared Armstrong (graduated) 67 for 2724 40.66 avg 65th in Nation
Kicking: Chris Summers 18 of 22 (81.8%) FGs, 56 of 56 PATs (100%)
2008 Stats
Punt Returns (team) 4 for 39 9.75 avg 55th in Nation
Punt Returns (ind) Hardy 2 for 11 5.5 avg.
Kickoff Returns (team) 19 for 434 22.8 avg 44th in the Nation
Kickoff return (ind) Desmond Tardy 6 for 191 31.83 avg 6th in Nation/Kory Sheets 11 for 219 19.9 avg
Kickoff Return Defense 20 for 393 19.65 avg 42nd in Nation
Punt Return Defense 6 for 130 1 TD 21.67 avg 117th in Nation
Punting Chris Summers 21 for 863 41.1 avg
Kicking Chris Summers 5 for 10 FGs, 14 for 15 PATs
The Purdue Special Teams bring a real mixed bag into The Shoe this Saturday. They had to replace their punter and leading kickoff returner from last year. Punter Summers has a decent 41.1 avg so far on the year, but his place-kicking is not up to par, hitting only 50% (5 of 10) FGs until being replaced by Freshman Carson Wiggs.
Special Teams
P #13 Chris Summers (6-1, 179, Jr., Fishers, IN)
PK #37 Carson Wiggs (6-0, 194, Fr., Grand Prairie, TX)
PR #6 Desmond Tardy (6-1, 199, Sr., Indianapolis, IN)
KR #6 Desmond Tardy (6-1, 199, Sr., Indianapolis, IN)
KR #17 Aaron Valentin (6-1, 205, Sr., Freeport, NY)
LS #62 Andy Huffman (6-3, 287, Sr., Montpelier, IN)
Hldr #12 Curtis Painter (6-4, 230, Sr., Vincennes, IN)
The Boilermakers are right around the middle of the pack in regards to returns. They are 44th in the Nation in Kickoff Returns (22.8 yds avg) and 55th in the Nation in Punt Returns (9.75 yds avg). No TDs have been scored by the return team as of yet. Their Return defenses have been mediocre, the Kickoff Return Defense is 42nd in the Nation (19.65 yds avg). Oddly, their Punt Return defense is 117th in the Nation and gives up more yards per return (21.67 yds avg) than their kickoff defense. They have also surrendered 1 TD via the punt return. Starting QB Painter handles the holding on FGs.
ST Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Tardy versus OSU STs
Tardy has not had much success this year in the punt returning getting only 2 returns for 11 yards. The Buckeye punt return defense has been solid with AJ Trepasso capable of turning in some moster games like last week vs Wisconsin. The Buckeyes should be able to win this part of the game. Tardy has found more success in the kickoff return area, averaging 31.83 yds per return, good for6th in Nation. Kory Sheets will split return duties. He has made 11 for 219 19.9 avg.
Edge: Even
Head-to-Head: Small/Saine/Sanzenbacher versus Purdue STs
To paraphrase an old football adage, the resistible force meets the movable object. The mediocre Purdue kickoff defense (42nd in the Nation) faces the down-right putrid Ohio State kickoff return team (99th in the Nation). Purdue with a slight advantage by default. On punt returns, the Boilermakers are as bad as the Buckeyes' kickoff teams, ranking 3rd from the bottom of all teams. The Buckeyes' punt return team is much better and should win that battle.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Special Teams Analysis
This will be an interesting game in regards to the Special Teams. In some areas Purdue and Ohio State excel (the Boilers kickoff returns and the Buckeye's punt and kicking for instance). In others, they are incredibly bad (Purdue's punt return defense and Ohio State's kickoff return offense). In the end, look for Ohio State's superior athletes to win the important battle of field position.
Overall Special Teams Rating: C
PredictionsPunt Returns (team) 19 for 141 yds 7.42 avg 81st in the Nation
Punt Returns (indiv) None in top 100
Kickoff Returns (team) 60 for 1434 23.9 avg 3 TDs 16th in Nation
Kickoff Returns (indiv) Dorien Bryant (graduated) 36 for 1007 27.97 avg 2 TDs 20th in Nation
Punt Return Defense 24 for 169 yds 7.04 avg 35th in the Nation
Kickoff Return Defense 76 for 1284 16.89 avg 2nd in the Nation
Punting Jared Armstrong (graduated) 67 for 2724 40.66 avg 65th in Nation
Kicking: Chris Summers 18 of 22 (81.8%) FGs, 56 of 56 PATs (100%)
2008 Stats
Punt Returns (team) 4 for 39 9.75 avg 55th in Nation
Punt Returns (ind) Hardy 2 for 11 5.5 avg.
Kickoff Returns (team) 19 for 434 22.8 avg 44th in the Nation
Kickoff return (ind) Desmond Tardy 6 for 191 31.83 avg 6th in Nation/Kory Sheets 11 for 219 19.9 avg
Kickoff Return Defense 20 for 393 19.65 avg 42nd in Nation
Punt Return Defense 6 for 130 1 TD 21.67 avg 117th in Nation
Punting Chris Summers 21 for 863 41.1 avg
Kicking Chris Summers 5 for 10 FGs, 14 for 15 PATs
The Purdue Special Teams bring a real mixed bag into The Shoe this Saturday. They had to replace their punter and leading kickoff returner from last year. Punter Summers has a decent 41.1 avg so far on the year, but his place-kicking is not up to par, hitting only 50% (5 of 10) FGs until being replaced by Freshman Carson Wiggs.
Special Teams
P #13 Chris Summers (6-1, 179, Jr., Fishers, IN)
PK #37 Carson Wiggs (6-0, 194, Fr., Grand Prairie, TX)
PR #6 Desmond Tardy (6-1, 199, Sr., Indianapolis, IN)
KR #6 Desmond Tardy (6-1, 199, Sr., Indianapolis, IN)
KR #17 Aaron Valentin (6-1, 205, Sr., Freeport, NY)
LS #62 Andy Huffman (6-3, 287, Sr., Montpelier, IN)
Hldr #12 Curtis Painter (6-4, 230, Sr., Vincennes, IN)
The Boilermakers are right around the middle of the pack in regards to returns. They are 44th in the Nation in Kickoff Returns (22.8 yds avg) and 55th in the Nation in Punt Returns (9.75 yds avg). No TDs have been scored by the return team as of yet. Their Return defenses have been mediocre, the Kickoff Return Defense is 42nd in the Nation (19.65 yds avg). Oddly, their Punt Return defense is 117th in the Nation and gives up more yards per return (21.67 yds avg) than their kickoff defense. They have also surrendered 1 TD via the punt return. Starting QB Painter handles the holding on FGs.
ST Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Tardy versus OSU STs
Tardy has not had much success this year in the punt returning getting only 2 returns for 11 yards. The Buckeye punt return defense has been solid with AJ Trepasso capable of turning in some moster games like last week vs Wisconsin. The Buckeyes should be able to win this part of the game. Tardy has found more success in the kickoff return area, averaging 31.83 yds per return, good for6th in Nation. Kory Sheets will split return duties. He has made 11 for 219 19.9 avg.
Edge: Even
Head-to-Head: Small/Saine/Sanzenbacher versus Purdue STs
To paraphrase an old football adage, the resistible force meets the movable object. The mediocre Purdue kickoff defense (42nd in the Nation) faces the down-right putrid Ohio State kickoff return team (99th in the Nation). Purdue with a slight advantage by default. On punt returns, the Boilermakers are as bad as the Buckeyes' kickoff teams, ranking 3rd from the bottom of all teams. The Buckeyes' punt return team is much better and should win that battle.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Special Teams Analysis
This will be an interesting game in regards to the Special Teams. In some areas Purdue and Ohio State excel (the Boilers kickoff returns and the Buckeye's punt and kicking for instance). In others, they are incredibly bad (Purdue's punt return defense and Ohio State's kickoff return offense). In the end, look for Ohio State's superior athletes to win the important battle of field position.
Overall Special Teams Rating: C
BB73's prediction: 34-13, Ohio State
BuckeyeRyn's prediction: 21-10, Ohio State
Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 38-7, Ohio State
Bucklion's prediction: 37-13, Ohio State
DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 42-10, Ohio State
JCOSU86's prediction: 31-7, Ohio State
jwinslow's prediction: 34-13, Ohio State
3yardsandacloud's prediction: 36-14, Ohio State
Adjusted scores for weeks missed. Participant must take the highest score from the week they missed.
BuckeyeRyn's prediction: 21-10, Ohio State
Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 38-7, Ohio State
Bucklion's prediction: 37-13, Ohio State
DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 42-10, Ohio State
JCOSU86's prediction: 31-7, Ohio State
jwinslow's prediction: 34-13, Ohio State
3yardsandacloud's prediction: 36-14, Ohio State
Previous Game's Results (OSU 20 - Wisconsin 17)
Low score wins the year long battle of prediction supremacy! (Difference of actual score versus predicted score. 10 point penalty for picking the losing team.)
Low score wins the year long battle of prediction supremacy! (Difference of actual score versus predicted score. 10 point penalty for picking the losing team.)
(64) Bucklion's prediction: 27-16, Ohio State (8 + 56 last week = 64)
(89) DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 31-17, Ohio State (11 + 78 last week = 89)
(97) jwinslow's prediction: 27-17, Ohio State (7 + 90 last week = 97)
(116) BB73's prediction: 37-17, Ohio State (17 + 99 last week = 116)
(118) JCOSU86's prediction: 21-14, Ohio State (4 + 114 last week = 118)
(125) Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 24-10, Ohio State (11 + 114 last week = 125)
(126) BuckeyeRyn's prediction: ??-??, Ohio State (17 + 109 last week = 126)
(126) 3yardsandacloud's prediction: ??-??, Ohio State (17 + 109 last week = 126)
(89) DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 31-17, Ohio State (11 + 78 last week = 89)
(97) jwinslow's prediction: 27-17, Ohio State (7 + 90 last week = 97)
(116) BB73's prediction: 37-17, Ohio State (17 + 99 last week = 116)
(118) JCOSU86's prediction: 21-14, Ohio State (4 + 114 last week = 118)
(125) Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 24-10, Ohio State (11 + 114 last week = 125)
(126) BuckeyeRyn's prediction: ??-??, Ohio State (17 + 109 last week = 126)
(126) 3yardsandacloud's prediction: ??-??, Ohio State (17 + 109 last week = 126)
Adjusted scores for weeks missed. Participant must take the highest score from the week they missed.
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